Power control system and method

Abstract

To provide a power control system and a related method that include receiving an ambient temperature adjacent to the system, an electric current value of electricity that is conducted to or out of a battery coupled with the system, and a voltage of a battery circuit that includes the battery.SOLUTION: In the power control system, an internal temperature of the battery is determined based at least in part on the ambient temperature, the current value and the voltage. One or more conditions for charging or discharging the battery are determined based at least in part on the internal temperature of the battery, the current value and the voltage. The battery is charged or discharged based at least on the one or more conditions.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The subject matter described herein relates to a system and related method for determining the battery temperature of a power control system.

Background Art

[0002] Batteries or other rechargeable power devices can be used within various systems to supply power to the propulsion and non-propulsion loads of the system. As an example, a battery can be used within a vehicle to supply power to various components or systems of the vehicle. Charging and / or discharging of the battery plays a role in optimizing the life of the battery. For example, the life of the battery can be affected by the battery charging or discharging being too fast or too slow, the charging current value, the charging voltage value, etc. of the electricity induced to or from the battery during charging or discharging. In order to improve the life of the battery, the charging and discharging conditions of the battery can be considered.

[0003] Furthermore, the operating temperature of the battery can affect the life of the battery. For example, the aging or life of the battery can depend on the battery operating temperature. In order to optimize the life of the battery, the operating temperature of the battery must be considered in order to determine the optimal charging and / or charging conditions of the battery. However, many systems do not include a battery temperature sensor. For example, existing systems can be assembled or built without including a battery temperature sensor, and the system may not have the space or capacity to include a battery temperature sensor or the like.

[0004] There may be a need for a system and method for determining the charging and discharging conditions of a battery in order to improve the life of the battery without the use or presence of a battery temperature sensor.

Summary of the Invention

[0005] In one or more embodiments, the method includes receiving an ambient temperature adjacent to the system, a current value of electricity conducted to or from a battery connected to the system, and a voltage of a battery circuit including the battery. Based at least in part on the ambient temperature, the current value, and the voltage, an internal temperature of the battery is determined. One or more conditions for at least one of charging or discharging the battery are determined based at least in part on the internal temperature, the current value, and the voltage of the battery. The battery is charged or discharged at least in part based on the one or more conditions.

[0006] In one or more embodiments of the subject matter described herein, a power control system includes a controller including one or more processors configured to receive an ambient temperature via a temperature sensor, a current value of electricity conducted to or from a battery via a current sensor, and a voltage of a battery circuit including the battery via a voltage sensor. The processor may determine an internal temperature of the battery based at least in part on the ambient temperature, the current value, and the voltage. The processor may determine one or more conditions for at least one of charging or discharging the battery based at least in part on the internal temperature, the current value, and the voltage of the battery. The processor may control at least one of charging or discharging the battery based on the one or more conditions.

[0007] In one or more embodiments, the method includes receiving the ambient temperature of the system, the current value of the electricity conducted to or from the battery connected to the system, and the voltage of the battery. The internal temperature of the battery can be determined without a battery temperature sensor. Based at least in part on the ambient temperature, the current value, and the voltage, the internal temperature of the battery can be determined. One or more conditions for charging the battery can be determined based at least in part on the internal temperature, the current value, and the voltage of the battery. The one or more conditions can include one or more of the charging current or the charging voltage of the battery. The one or more conditions can control the rate of charging of the battery. The battery is automatically charged based on the one or more conditions. It can be determined that the internal temperature of the battery exceeds a specified absolute threshold value, and based on the internal temperature of the battery exceeding the specified absolute threshold value, a warning can be communicated to the operator of the system. One or more of the conditions for charging the battery can be changed based on the internal temperature of the battery exceeding the specified absolute threshold value.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008] The subject matter of the present invention can be understood from the following description of non-limiting embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0009]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] Embodiments of the subject matter described herein relate to systems and methods for determining the temperature of a battery in the absence of a battery temperature sensor. A power control system (e.g., a stationary or mobile system) may include a rechargeable power device such as a battery, a resistive grid, a battery bank, etc. that can provide power to the load of the power control system or another power control system. The system may include a controller that receives the ambient temperature adjacent to the system, the current value of the electricity conducted to or from the battery, and the voltage of the battery. A processor may use the ambient temperature, the current value, and the voltage to determine the internal temperature of the battery. For example, the internal temperature of the battery may be determined in the absence of a battery temperature sensor or without a battery temperature sensor.

[0011] The processor may use the determined internal temperature of the battery, the current value, and the voltage of the battery to determine conditions for charging and / or discharging the battery. The conditions may include the charging current value of the electricity conducted to or from the battery during charging or discharging. Optionally, the conditions may include a charging voltage value indicating the voltage of the electricity induced to or from the battery. The battery may be automatically charged and / or discharged based at least in part on the determined conditions. Further, the rate at which the battery is charged or discharged may be controlled based at least in part on the conditions for charging and / or discharging.

[0012] FIG. 1 shows an example of a power control system 100 according to one embodiment. In one embodiment, the power control system may be a mobile power control system of a vehicle, such as a railway vehicle, an automobile, a truck, a bus, a mining vehicle, a ship, an aircraft (a manned or unmanned aircraft such as a drone), an agricultural vehicle, industrial equipment, or other off-highway vehicle. In another embodiment, the power control system may be a stationary or non-mobile power control system such as a wind turbine, a manufacturing machine, a power generation system, etc.

[0013] The power control system may include a communication system 108 that can communicate with components of the power control system and / or with a system separate from the power control system. The communication system represents a transceiver circuit, one or more antennas, a modem, etc. In one or more embodiments, the communication system may receive a data signal and provide it to a controller 110 of the power control system, one or more wayside devices, one or more on-board systems of another power control system, etc. In one embodiment, the power control system may communicate wirelessly with another system, database, controller, etc. Optionally, the power control system may communicate with other power systems, databases, controllers, wayside devices, etc. via a conductive path such as a wire, cable, bus, etc.

[0014] The power control system may include an engine 106 that includes one or more other components that provide power to one or more components or systems of the power control system (e.g., an engine, motor, generator, etc.). In one embodiment, the engine may provide a propulsive force to propel a mobile power system along a path. In another embodiment, the engine may provide power to a component or system of a stationary power control system.

[0015] The power control system includes a battery circuit 102 that represents an electrical energy source that can be used to supply power to one or more systems or components of the power control system. The battery circuit can include one or more batteries, battery cells, or other rechargeable electrical energy storage devices, wires, or other conductive materials that can be held or contained within a battery housing 104. In one or more embodiments, the battery of the battery circuit can be, or can represent, a lead-acid battery, a nickel-cadmium battery, a nickel-metal hydride battery, a lithium-ion battery, etc. In one or more embodiments, the battery circuit can include one or more batteries disposed within the battery housing, or optionally, the power control system can include two or more battery circuits having one or more battery cells that can be used to supply power to components of the power control system. The battery circuit can be a rechargeable battery such that the battery can receive electrical energy from another power source (e.g., an external power source such as a traction motor of the power control system, a charging station from another power control system, or a catenary wire, etc.).

[0016] The power control system may include one or more sensors 112 disposed at different positions or locations inside or outside the power control system. In one embodiment, one or more of the sensors may be temperature or thermal sensors that can sense or detect ambient temperature at one or more locations adjacent to and / or outside the power control system, the surface temperature of one or more components or systems of the power control system, etc. In one or more embodiments, one or more of the sensors may detect or sense battery characteristics. For example, a current sensor may detect, sense, or otherwise measure the current value of electricity conducted to and / or from a battery circuit. As another example, a voltage sensor may detect, sense, or otherwise measure the voltage of a battery circuit. As another example, a motion sensor may detect or sense the speed at which an axle of the power control system is rotating or may detect the speed at which the power control system is moving. As another example, a pressure sensor may detect or identify fluid pressure within the power control system (e.g., brake fluid, compressor fluid pressure, etc.).

[0017] The power system may include a controller 110 that may represent a control module and may include one or more processors, microcontrollers, or other logic-based devices and / or associated software or instructions for performing one or more operations described herein. The controller controls the operation of the power control system, such as by controlling the traction force and / or braking force provided by an engine and / or brake system (not shown). The controller may be manually operated by receiving a command signal from an input device based on a manual input from an operator at an input device (not shown) (e.g., a device that receives input from an operator, such as a touch screen, joystick, keyboard, switch, wheel, microphone, etc., but not limited thereto). An output device (not shown) can provide information to the operator, such as the operating conditions or settings of the power control system, power output information, battery circuit information (e.g., current value of the battery circuit, voltage of the battery circuit, ambient temperature of the power control system, etc.).

[0018] The battery circuit can be used for one or more applications of a power control system, such as providing power for cranking, power proof for an electronic panel and a control system, providing power for other auxiliary loads such as lighting, etc., but is not limited thereto. The state of charge of the battery varies according to various applications of the power control system that draws electrical energy from the battery. In one or more embodiments, the battery of the battery circuit may need to be charged or discharged (for example, electrical energy may need to be removed from the battery circuit). To determine the optimal time for charging and / or discharging the battery, one or more conditions of the battery and / or the power control system may be considered. For example, the battery charging voltage may be at least partially based on the temperature of the battery (e.g., the internal temperature). Additionally or alternatively, the battery aging of the power control system may depend on the battery operating temperature (e.g., the internal temperature the battery reaches while the battery and / or the power control system is operating).

[0019] In one or more embodiments, the conditions for charging and / or discharging the battery may be based on one or more characteristics such as the time or frequency of recharging the battery (e.g., in response to the battery reaching a determined state of charge, based on the determined amount of electrical energy the power control system may require, based on the length of time the battery may have been or would be in use or operation, etc.), the rate at which the battery can receive electrical energy for charging, and / or the rate at which the battery can discharge electrical energy, the total amount of electrical energy the battery can receive, etc.

[0020] FIG. 2 shows an example of a flowchart 200 of a method for charging or discharging a battery of a power system according to one embodiment. Further, FIG. 3 shows a schematic diagram of the flowchart shown in FIG. 2 for charging or discharging a battery of a power system according to one embodiment. FIGS. 2 and 3 are considered together herein. The steps of the method can be completed by a controller of the power control system and / or by an off-board or alternative controller separate from the power control system. Optionally, the steps of the method can be completed in an alternative order, or one or more steps can be excluded, or one or more steps can be included.

[0021] In step 202, one or more processors of the controller can receive an ambient temperature 322 from a sensor 312C of the power control system or the like. The ambient temperature can be obtained from sensors outside the power control system, inside the power control system, outside the power control system and adjacent locations, and the like. Optionally, one or more processors can also receive one or more other ambient conditions (e.g., humidity, air quality, noise, etc.). Optionally, one or more processors can also receive and / or have information related to the geographical conditions of the power control system (e.g., the geographical location of the power control system, the moving speed of a mobile power control system, etc.).

[0022] In step 204, the processor may determine the internal temperature 302 of the battery 304 of the power control system's battery circuit. The calculated or determined internal temperature of the battery may be based on one or more of the ambient temperature 322 (such as received from the temperature sensor 312C), the current value 324 of the electricity conducted to or from the system's battery (which may be received, for example, from the current sensor 312B), and the voltage 326 of the battery (which may be received, for example, from the voltage sensor 312A). Optionally, a single sensor may detect or sense multiple characteristics of the battery, including the current value and voltage. The internal temperature of the battery may be determined in the absence of a battery temperature sensor or without a battery temperature sensor. For example, the internal temperature of the battery may be determined without using a battery temperature sensor based on the ambient temperature adjacent to the power control system, the current value, and the voltage of the battery. The determined internal temperature of the battery may be an estimated internal temperature, for example, an approximation of the internal temperature determined without sensor data from a sensor placed inside or extending inside the battery housing for measuring the battery temperature internally.

[0023] In one or more embodiments, the internal temperature or core temperature of the battery may be determined based on the operating mode of the battery. For example, in the bulk charge mode, the internal battery temperature is a majority function of the battery current value and a minority function of the battery voltage. Alternatively, in the float battery mode, the internal battery temperature is a majority function of the battery voltage and a minority function of the battery current. For example, the current value of the electricity entering or leaving the battery operating in the float mode may be approximately zero. In one or more embodiments, the current value may include the energy entering and / or leaving the battery and the battery losses (such as copper losses, etc.). In one embodiment, the voltage of the battery may include the voltage value of the battery during operation in the float mode and the discharge losses. The processor may determine the internal temperature or core battery temperature based on the calculated energy of the battery, the losses of the battery, the heat capacity coefficient and / or thermal resistance coefficient of the battery based on the type or modality of the battery, the aging of the battery, the usage time of the battery, etc.

[0024] In step 206, the processor may determine one or more conditions for charging and / or discharging the battery. The conditions may be determined based on the current value 324, the voltage 326, and the determined (e.g., estimated) internal battery temperature 302. For example, the algorithm may associate or correlate the current value of the electricity conducted to or from the battery with the voltage of the battery and the estimated internal temperature of the battery to determine the conditions or characteristics for charging and / or discharging the battery. The conditions or characteristics may include the charging current value of the electrical energy induced to or from the battery, the charging or discharging voltage, the charging rate or speed, the amount of charge that the battery can receive and / or discharge, the time of charging and / or discharging, the frequency of charging and / or discharging of the battery, and the like. In one or more embodiments, the conditions for charging may be different from the conditions for discharging the battery. Optionally, the conditions for charging the battery and the conditions for discharging the battery may be substantially the same.

[0025] In one or more embodiments, the processor may determine the surface temperature of the battery housing of the battery circuit based at least in part on the internal temperature of the battery. For example, the internal temperature or core temperature of the battery may indicate the surface temperature of the battery. In one or more embodiments, the conditions for charging and / or discharging the battery may be based at least in part on the surface temperature of the battery housing.

[0026] In step 208, a determination is made as to whether the internal temperature of the battery exceeds an absolute threshold value that has been determined. The determined absolute threshold value of the battery can be based on the type or modality of the battery, the aging of the battery, the operating conditions of the power control system (e.g., the length of time the system has been in use, the length of time the system has not been in use, etc.), the environmental conditions of the environment in which the power control system is placed, and the like. In one embodiment, the absolute threshold value can change in response to the battery and / or the power system starting and / or stopping operation. In another embodiment, the absolute threshold value can change based on a change in the operating conditions of the power control system. In another embodiment, the absolute threshold value can change in response to a change in the operating conditions of the power control system and / or the battery circuit. If the core temperature of the battery exceeds the absolute threshold value, the flow of the method proceeds to step 212. Optionally, if the core temperature or internal temperature of the battery is within a predetermined threshold range of the absolute threshold value (e.g., within 10% of the absolute value, within 5% of the absolute threshold value, etc.), the flow of the method can proceed to step 212. Alternatively, if the core temperature or internal temperature of the battery does not exceed the absolute threshold value, or if the temperature of the battery is not within the predetermined threshold range of the absolute threshold value, the flow of the method can proceed to step 210.

[0027] In step 210, electrical energy is automatically induced either towards or away from the battery, respectively, based on the conditions for charging or discharging the battery, to charge or discharge the battery. For example, charging electrical energy 328 can be induced towards the battery for charging the battery, and the conditions of the electrical energy can include one or more of a charging current value, a charging voltage, a charging rate, and the like. Optionally, discharging electrical energy 330 can be induced from the battery, and the conditions can include a discharging current value, a discharging voltage, a discharging rate, and the like.

[0028] In one or more embodiments, the battery can be automatically charged or discharged at a rate of charging or discharging the battery based on conditions determined to charge the battery. In one or more embodiments, the battery should be automatically charged and / or discharged based on the type of charging or discharging of the battery (e.g., trickle charging or discharging mode, pulse charging or discharging mode, etc.). Optionally, the battery can be automatically charged or discharged until the battery reaches a target state of charge, and based on the state of charge of the battery, the battery can be charged or discharged until the battery reaches a target total charge value, until the battery reaches an upper or lower charge capacity that the battery can hold, etc. Optionally, the charging and / or discharging of the battery can be distributed across the battery bank or battery circuit of the battery.

[0029] In one or more embodiments, the battery can be automatically charged by receiving electrical energy from a power source external to the power control system, receiving electrical energy from an alternative internal power source (e.g., receiving electrical energy generated by a traction motor or alternator of the power control system, or an alternative energy storage device of the power control system, via a power cable), receiving electrical energy via a utility grid through a catenary rail or third rail external to the power control system, receiving electrical energy from a wireless power transmission system, etc.

[0030] In one or more embodiments, the battery can be automatically discharged by inducing some electrical energy from the battery towards the load of the power control system. For example, the battery can supply power to a propulsion load 318 of the power control system, a non-propulsion load 320 of the power control system, other loads of the power control system, loads of another power control system, etc. Optionally, the power can be directed towards an energy storage device of the power control system, a power source external to the power control system, a ground circuit or grounding circuit of the power control system, etc.

[0031] In step 212, in response to determining that the temperature of the battery exceeds an absolute threshold value that has been determined, a warning may be communicated. For example, the warning may be communicated to an on-board or nearby operator of the power control system, an off-board operator of the power control system, a dispatch center or control center located far away from the power control system, etc. The warning may include a notification of the temperature exceeding the determined absolute threshold value, an instruction to take an action based on the difference between the determined temperature and the absolute threshold value, an indication or notification as to whether the processor has or automatically changes one or more operating conditions of the power control system, and the like.

[0032] In one or more embodiments, in step 214, one or more conditions for charging and / or discharging the battery may be changed. For example, the charging current value may be changed, the charging voltage may be changed, the rate of charging or discharging may be changed (e.g., to a faster rate or a slower rate), the total amount of electrical energy being discharged or added to the battery for charging may be changed (e.g., increased or decreased), and so on. The change in conditions may be based on the difference between the determined temperature and the absolute threshold value, may be based on a change in one or more of the current value or voltage of the battery, may be based on a change in the operating conditions of the power control system, and the like. In step 216, the battery is automatically charged and / or discharged based on the new conditions for charging and / or discharging the battery.

[0033] In one or more embodiments, the flowchart may repeat or continue while the battery and / or power control system is operating. Optionally, the steps may continue at a determined or predetermined frequency (e.g., once per hour of operation of the power control system, once per 24 hours of operation, based on a predetermined watt-hour usage of the battery, etc.). Optionally, the steps may continue based on the state of charge of the battery reaching a predetermined charge limit (e.g., in response to 75% of the total capacity of the battery remaining, in response to 50% of the total capacity of the battery remaining, etc.). Optionally, the steps may continue or repeat in response to manual intervention by an operator of the power control system (e.g., on-board or off-board) instructing the processor to manually determine the internal temperature of the battery.

[0034] In one or more embodiments, the processor may receive the ambient temperature from a location adjacent to the power control system, as well as the current value and voltage of the battery, to determine the temperature of the battery. The processor may also receive actual internal battery temperature data from, for example, a battery temperature sensor. Optionally, the processor may receive actual battery surface temperature data from the battery temperature sensor. The processor may verify the actual battery temperature data by comparing the actual battery temperature data with the determined temperature data. For example, the processor may verify the determined internal temperature by comparing the determined internal temperature of the battery with the actual internal temperature data, or verify the determined battery surface temperature by comparing the determined battery surface temperature with the actual battery surface temperature data.

[0035] In one embodiment, the processor may communicate a warning to the operator of the power control system based on the difference between the actual battery temperature and the determined temperature of the battery exceeding the upper limit of the determined relative threshold. Optionally, the processor may communicate a warning based on the difference being below the lower limit of the determined relative threshold. Optionally, the processor may change one or more variables or functions of the algorithm for determining the temperature of the battery based on the difference between the actual temperature value and the determined temperature value.

[0036] In one or more embodiments of the subject matter described in this specification, the method includes receiving an ambient temperature adjacent to the system, a current value of electricity conducted to or from a battery connected to the system, and a voltage of a battery circuit including the battery. Based at least in part on the ambient temperature, the current value, and the voltage, an internal temperature of the battery is determined. One or more conditions for at least one of charging or discharging the battery are determined based at least in part on the internal temperature, the current value, and the voltage of the battery. The battery is charged or discharged, or at least one of charging or discharging is performed, based on the one or more conditions.

[0037] Optionally, the internal temperature of the battery can be determined without using a battery temperature sensor. Optionally, a surface temperature of the housing of the battery can be determined based at least in part on the internal temperature of the battery. The surface temperature can be different from the internal temperature. Optionally, one or more conditions for charging or discharging the battery can also be based on the surface temperature of the housing of the battery. Optionally, the one or more conditions can include one or more of a charging current value or a charging voltage of the battery. Optionally, charging or discharging of the battery can include controlling a rate of charging or discharging of the battery based on the one or more conditions. Optionally, internal battery temperature data can be received from a battery temperature sensor, and the determined internal temperature of the battery can be verified by comparing it with the internal temperature of the battery for which the battery temperature is determined.

[0038] Optionally, a warning may be communicated to an operator of the system based on a difference between internal battery temperature data and a determined internal temperature of the battery exceeding a specified relative threshold. Optionally, it may be determined that the internal temperature of the battery exceeds a specified absolute threshold, and a warning may be communicated to an operator of the system based on the internal temperature of the battery exceeding the specified absolute threshold. Optionally, one or more conditions for charging or discharging the battery may be changed based on the internal temperature of the battery exceeding a specified absolute threshold.

[0039] In one or more embodiments of the subject matter described herein, a power control system includes a controller including one or more processors configured to receive ambient temperature via a temperature sensor, a current value of electricity conducted to or from a battery via a current sensor, and a voltage of a battery circuit including the battery via a voltage sensor. The processor may determine an internal temperature of the battery based at least in part on the ambient temperature, the current value, and the voltage. The processor may determine one or more conditions for at least one of charging or discharging the battery based at least in part on the internal temperature of the battery, the current value, and the voltage. The processor may control at least one of charging or discharging the battery based on the one or more conditions.

[0040] Optionally, the processor may determine the internal temperature of the battery without using a battery temperature sensor. Optionally, the processor may determine the surface temperature of the battery housing based on the internal temperature of the battery. The processor may determine one or more conditions for charging or discharging the battery based on the surface temperature of the battery housing. Optionally, the one or more conditions may include one or more of the battery's charging current value or charging voltage. Optionally, the processor may control the rate of charging or discharging of the battery based on the one or more conditions. Optionally, the system may include a battery temperature sensor that provides internal battery temperature data to the processor. The processor may verify the determined internal temperature of the battery by comparing the internal temperature data to the determined internal temperature of the battery. Optionally, the communication system may communicate a warning to the operator of the system based on the difference between the internal battery temperature data and the determined internal temperature of the battery exceeding a specified relative threshold. Optionally, the processor may determine that the determined internal temperature of the battery exceeds a specified absolute threshold and communicate a warning to the operator of the system in response to determining that the internal temperature of the battery exceeds the specified absolute threshold. Optionally, the processor may change one or more of the one or more conditions for charging or discharging the battery based on the internal temperature of the battery exceeding the specified absolute threshold.

[0041] In one or more embodiments of the subject matter described in this specification, the method includes receiving the ambient temperature of the system, the current value of the electricity conducted to or from the battery connected to the system, and the voltage of the battery. The internal temperature of the battery can be determined without a battery temperature sensor. The internal temperature of the battery can be determined based at least in part on the ambient temperature, the current value, and the voltage. One or more conditions for charging the battery can be determined based at least in part on the internal temperature, the current value, and the voltage of the battery. The one or more conditions can include one or more of the charging current or the charging voltage of the battery. The one or more conditions can control the rate of charging of the battery. The battery is automatically charged based on the one or more conditions. It can be determined that the internal temperature of the battery exceeds a specified absolute threshold value, and based on the internal temperature of the battery exceeding the specified absolute threshold value, a warning can be communicated to the operator of the system. One or more of the conditions for charging the battery can be changed based on the internal temperature of the battery exceeding the specified absolute threshold value.

[0042] According to another aspect, when the system includes a battery temperature sensor, the system enters a state where (i) the battery temperature sensor is malfunctioning or, if not, is considered unable to sense the internal temperature sensor or provide data on the sensed internal battery temperature, (ii) indicates a possible state of the battery temperature sensor, such as the presence, generation, or reception of a fault or failure flag or data in, for example, a log / memory, that there is a possibility that the battery temperature sensor is not providing reliable data on the sensed internal battery temperature, (iii) determines that the data provided by the battery temperature sensor may indicate a faulty sensor, for example, an unstable temperature data that suggests an extremely low value relative to the ambient temperature or a temperature at which the data changes rapidly up and down (such as is unlikely to occur in a vehicle or other system), satisfying one or more specified criteria indicating that the data may not accurately represent the internal battery temperature, (iv) no data is received from the battery temperature sensor, (v) etc., and in response to one or more of these, may be configured to perform one or more of the various functions described herein (e.g., determine one or more conditions for charging and / or discharging the battery based at least in part on the estimated internal temperature of the battery). The system may be configured to perform one or more of the various functions described herein only in response to one or more of the aforementioned conditions. For example, controlling the charging / discharging of the battery based on the estimated internal temperature is only performed when it is determined that the data from the internal battery temperature sensor is unreliable as a backup or failsafe in the event of a sensor failure or does not exist for each specified criterion.

[0043] In one embodiment, the controller or system described herein may deploy a local data collection system that can use machine learning to enable learning outcomes based on derivation. The controller can perform data-driven predictions and learn from and make decisions based on a set of data (including data provided by various sensors) by adapting according to the set of data. In an embodiment, machine learning may include performing multiple machine learning tasks by machine learning systems such as supervised learning, unsupervised learning, and reinforcement learning. Supervised learning may include presenting a set of exemplary inputs and desired outputs to a machine learning system. Unsupervised learning may include learning algorithms that structure the input by methods such as pattern detection and / or feature learning. Reinforcement learning may include a machine learning system executing in a dynamic environment and then providing feedback regarding correct and incorrect decisions. In an example, machine learning may include multiple other tasks based on the output of the machine learning system. In an example, the tasks may be machine learning problems such as classification, regression, clustering, density estimation, dimensionality reduction, anomaly detection, etc. In an example, machine learning may include multiple mathematical and statistical techniques. In an example, many types of machine learning algorithms may include decision tree-based learning, association rule learning, deep learning, artificial neural networks, genetic learning algorithms, inductive logic programming, support vector machines (SVM), Bayesian networks, reinforcement learning, representation learning, rule-based machine learning, sparse dictionary learning, similarity metric learning, learning classifier systems (LCS), logistic regression, random forests, K-means, gradient boosting, K-nearest neighbors (KNN), Apriori algorithms, etc. In an embodiment, a particular machine learning algorithm may be used (e.g., to solve both constrained optimization problems and unconstrained optimization problems that may be based on natural selection). In an example, the algorithm may be used to address problems of mixed integer programming where some components are restricted to integer values.Algorithms, machine learning techniques, and systems can be used in computational intelligence systems, computer vision, natural language processing (NLP), recommendation systems, reinforcement learning, construction of graphical models, and the like. In one example, machine learning can be used when performing determinations, calculations, comparisons, and behavioral analysis, and the like.

[0044] In one embodiment, the controller may include a policy engine that can apply one or more policies. These policies may be at least partially based on the characteristics of a given item of equipment or environment. Regarding the control policy, the neural network can receive inputs of a number of environmental parameters and task-related parameters. These parameters may include, for example, motion inputs regarding the operating equipment, data from various sensors, location and / or position data, and the like. The neural network can be trained to generate an output based on these inputs, and the output represents the actions or sequence of actions that the equipment or system should take to achieve the goals of the operation. During the operation of one embodiment, a determination may occur by processing the input through the parameters of the neural network and generating, at the output node, a value that designates that action as the desired action. This action can be converted into a signal to operate the vehicle. This can be achieved via backpropagation, feedforward process, closed-loop feedback, or open-loop feedback. Alternatively, instead of using backpropagation, the machine learning system of the controller can use evolutionary strategy techniques to adjust various parameters of the artificial neural network. The controller can use a neural network architecture that has functions, such as non-convex functions, that may not always be solvable using backpropagation. In one embodiment, the neural network has a set of parameters that represent the weights of its node connections. A number of copies of this network are generated, and then various adjustments are made to the parameters and simulations are performed. When the outputs from various models are obtained, they can be evaluated based on their performance using a determined success metric. The best model is selected, and the vehicle controller executes a plan to achieve the desired input data to mirror the predicted best result scenario. Further, the success metric can be an optimized combination of results that are weighted against each other.

[0045] As used herein, "processor" and "computer", and related terms, such as "processing device", "computing device", and "controller", are not limited to only integrated circuits referred to as computers in the art, and can refer to microcontrollers, microcomputers, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), field programmable gate arrays, and application specific integrated circuits, as well as other programmable circuits. Suitable memory can include, for example, computer-readable media. The computer-readable media can be, for example, computer-readable non-volatile media such as random access memory (RAM), flash memory, etc. The term "non-transitory computer-readable media" represents tangible computer-based devices implemented for short-term and long-term storage of information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules and sub-modules, or other data within any device. Thus, the methods described herein can be encoded as executable instructions embodied in a tangible, non-transitory computer-readable media including, but not limited to, a memory device and / or a memory device. When executed by a processor, such instructions cause the processor to perform at least a portion of the methods described herein. Thus, the term includes, without limitation, volatile and non-volatile media, as well as firmware, physical and virtual storage devices, removable and non-removable media such as CD-ROMs, DVDs, and other digital sources such as networks or the Internet, including, without limitation, non-transitory computer storage devices, tangible computer-readable media.

[0046] The singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. "Optional" or "optionally" means that the subsequent described event or circumstance may or may not occur, and that the description can include both the case where the event occurs and the case where it does not. Approximating language, as used herein throughout the specification and claims, may be applied to modify any quantitative representation that could permissibly vary without resulting in a change in the basic function to which it relates. Accordingly, values modified by terms such as "about", "substantially", and "approximately" are not to be limited to the exact value specified. In at least some instances, the approximating language may correspond to the precision of the instrument for measuring the value. Here, as well as throughout the specification and claims, range limitations may be combined and / or interchanged, such ranges can be identified, and, unless the context or language indicates otherwise, all sub-ranges subsumed therein may be included.

[0047] This written description discloses embodiments including the best mode, using examples, and enables one of ordinary skill in the art to make and use any device or system and to perform any incorporated method. The claims define the scope of the patentable aspects of the disclosure and include other examples that occur to one of ordinary skill in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements that do not materially differ from the literal language of the claims.

Claims

1. 1. A method comprising: receiving an ambient temperature adjacent to the system, a current value of electricity conducted to or from a battery connected to the system, and a voltage of a battery circuit including the battery; determining an internal temperature of the battery based at least in part on the ambient temperature, the current value, and the voltage; determining one or more conditions for at least one of charging or discharging the battery based at least in part on the internal temperature, the current value, and the voltage of the battery; and at least one of charging or discharging the battery based at least on the one or more conditions.

2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the internal temperature of the battery is determined without the use of a battery temperature sensor.

3. The method of claim 1 , further comprising determining a surface temperature of a housing of the battery based at least in part on the internal temperature of the battery, the surface temperature being different from the internal temperature.

4. The method of claim 3 , further comprising determining the one or more conditions for charging or discharging the battery based also on the surface temperature of the housing of the battery.

5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the one or more conditions include one or more of a charging current value or a charging voltage of the battery.

6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the charging or discharging of the battery comprises controlling a rate of at least one of the charging or discharging of the battery based on the one or more conditions.

7. receiving internal battery temperature data from a battery temperature sensor; verifying the determined internal temperature of the battery by comparing the battery temperature data to the determined internal temperature of the battery; The method of claim 1 further comprising:

8. 8. The method of claim 7, further comprising communicating an alert to an operator of the system based on a difference between the internal battery temperature data and the determined internal temperature of the battery exceeding a specified relative threshold.

9. determining when the internal temperature of the battery exceeds a specified absolute threshold; The method of claim 1 , further comprising: communicating an alert to an operator of the system based on the internal temperature of the battery exceeding the specified absolute threshold.

10. 10. The method of claim 9, further comprising modifying the one or more conditions for charging or discharging the battery based on the internal temperature of the battery exceeding the specified absolute threshold.

11. 1. A power control system, comprising: a controller comprising one or more processors configured to receive an ambient temperature via a temperature sensor, a value of a current of electricity conducted to or from the battery via a current sensor, and a voltage of a battery circuit including the battery via a voltage sensor; the one or more processors are configured to determine an internal temperature of the battery based at least in part on the ambient temperature, the current value, and the voltage; the one or more processors are configured to determine one or more conditions for at least one of charging or discharging the battery based at least in part on the internal temperature, the current value, and the voltage of the battery; The one or more processors are configured to control at least one of charging or discharging the battery based on the one or more conditions.

12. The power control system of claim 11 , wherein the one or more processors are configured to determine the internal temperature of the battery without the use of a battery temperature sensor.

13. 12. The power control system of claim 11, wherein the one or more processors are configured to determine a surface temperature of a housing of the battery based on the internal temperature of the battery, and to determine the one or more conditions for charging or discharging the battery based on the surface temperature of the housing of the battery.

14. The power control system of claim 11 , wherein the one or more conditions include one or more of a charging current value or a charging voltage of the battery.

15. The power control system of claim 11 , wherein the one or more processors are configured to control a rate of at least one of charging or discharging the battery based on the one or more conditions.

16. 12. The power control system of claim 11, further comprising a battery temperature sensor configured to provide internal battery temperature data to the one or more processors, the one or more processors configured to verify the determined internal temperature of the battery by comparing the internal battery temperature data to the determined internal temperature of the battery.

17. 17. The power control system of claim 16, further comprising a communication system configured to communicate an alert to an operator of the system based on a difference between the internal battery temperature data and the determined internal temperature of the battery exceeding a specified relative threshold.

18. 12. The power control system of claim 11, wherein the one or more processors are configured to determine that the determined internal temperature of the battery exceeds a specified absolute threshold and to communicate an alert to an operator of the system in response to determining that the internal temperature of the battery exceeds the specified absolute threshold.

19. 20. The power control system of claim 18, wherein the one or more processors are configured to modify the one or more of the one or more conditions for charging or discharging the battery based on the internal temperature of the battery exceeding the specified absolute threshold.

20. 1. A method comprising: receiving an ambient temperature of a system, a current value of electricity conducted to or from a battery connected to the system, and a voltage of the battery; determining an internal temperature of the battery without a battery temperature sensor, the internal temperature of the battery being determined based at least in part on the ambient temperature, the current value, and the voltage; determining one or more conditions for charging the battery based at least in part on the internal temperature, the current value, and the voltage of the battery, the one or more conditions including one or more of a charging current or a charging voltage of the battery, the one or more conditions configured to control a rate at which the battery is charged; automatically charging the battery based on the one or more conditions; and determining when the internal temperature of the battery exceeds a specified absolute threshold; communicating an alert to an operator of the system based on the internal temperature of the battery exceeding the specified absolute threshold; and modifying one or more of the one or more conditions for charging the battery based on the internal temperature of the battery exceeding the specified absolute threshold.

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